Vintage Afghan Rug: Hand-Knotted Wool Panel Design

Hand-knotted by tribal weavers of northern Afghanistan, this compact prayer/meditation rug features a rare mosque-panel (mihrab & minaret) layout framed by a mosaic “garden” grid and crisp geometric borders. Saturated madder red, midnight blue, emerald, and sky-blue wools glow against a dark ground—perfect as an entry accent, bedside piece, or wall hanging.

Weaving tradition. The structure, palette and motifs point to Baluch & Uzbek-influenced northern Afghan weaving (Andkhoy/Maimana area). The multiple panel “mosque” vignettes, stepped mihrab arches, and tiny minaret-candles are typical of devotional rugs made for local use and for the Herat/Kabul markets from the late 20th century.

Knot & construction. Closeups of the back show a regular grid with short diagonal knot collars indicating a symmetric (Turkish/Ghiordes) knot on cotton warps with dark wool wefts (2 shots)—a common Andkhoy build that gives a supple yet sturdy handle.

Age. Colors are rich with light, even patina and no sun-fade; sides and ends are intact. This places the rug circa 1980s–1990s.

Materials. Hand-spun sheep’s wool pile on cotton foundation. Dyes are a mix of traditional madder and good quality chrome/synthetic dyes typical of the period—hence the jewel-tone clarity.

Pile & density. Medium pile (~6–7 mm). Estimated density ~80–100 KPSI (about 8–10 × 10–11 knots/in²): durable, comfortable underfoot, and sharp enough for the tiny floral rosettes.

Distinctive features.

Three stacked mosque/mihrab panels with domes and minarets (protective/devotional)

Central chahar-bagh “garden” grid of rosette tiles symbolizing paradise and renewal

Outer borders of cruciform and octogram tiles—classic Central Asian guard stripes

No maker’s signature present; small talismanic cartouches appear in the grid, typical of the region

Condition: Excellent vintage—full pile, edges and fringes secure, only minor age patina and light, natural abrash. No visible repairs.

Features:

Exact size: 124 × 100 cm (approx 4.07 × 3.28 ft)

Origin: Northern Afghanistan (Baluch/Uzbeks, Andkhoy–Maimana tradition)

Weave: Hand-knotted, symmetric (Ghiordes) knots, 2-weft construction

Pile / foundation: Hand-spun wool pile; cotton warps; dark wool wefts

Pile height: ~6–7 mm (medium)

Knot density: ~80–100 KPSI (est.)

Age: c. 1980s–1990s

Colors: Madder red, midnight/navy, sky blue, emerald, teal, walnut, ivory, black outlines

Time investment: At this fineness a single weaver would spend roughly 5–7 weeks on a piece this size (or 3–4 weeks for a two-person loom).

Rare mosque-panel prayer design—beautiful on the floor or as a wall hanging

Plush, resilient wool pile for warmth and sound softening

Compact 4×3 footprint fits entries, bedside, reading corners, kitchens, and studio spaces

Harmonious jewel-tone palette that pairs with boho, eclectic, vintage, cottage, and modern interiors

Care instructions (easy & rug-safe)

Use a quality rug pad to prevent slip and extend life.

Vacuum with suction only (no beater bar). Vacuum both sides occasionally.

Rotate every 3–6 months for even wear and light exposure.

Blot spills immediately; spot clean with wool-safe detergent and cool water.

For a deep clean every few years, use a professional hand-wash service experienced with hand-knotted wool.

Bring home a one-of-a-kind piece of Afghan craftsmanship. This vintage mosque-panel rug adds soul, story, and saturated color to any space—ready to ship and ready to be loved.